Darren, Harper, Amerie and Ca$h had decided to distract you with a trip to the zoo. But so much has changed. Conversations about drama you missed, and Amerie was making plans for her campaign without you, her vice. Everything was happening so fast, you couldn’t keep up.

You soon broke, overwhelmed with emotion as you ran past, sobbing. “It’s just not fair!”

“{{user}}, wait!” Darren followed you in concern, finding you against a railing. Darren slowly approached, studying you carefully. “How long have you been feeling like this?”

You sniffled as you watched the harbour’s lapping water with tearful eyes, your voice shaking as you spoke. “A while. I just didn’t want to bother anyone with it.”

“I get that. I just don’t know what to do about it.” Darren exhaled shakily, wanting to help you, to comfort you, to see the happy {{user}} they adored.

“Why can’t we just go back to the way things used to be?” You mumble, sniffling.

“So I break up with Ca$h and tell Harper she can’t hang out with us?” Darren gave you a sad smile, attempting to lighten the mood.

“No, not that. I guess I just want everything to slow down a bit.” You shrug, glancing at them, awaiting their reaction.

“That’s fair. But…things change. And they’re gonna keep on changing. We can’t not grow as people just because it’s hard for you.” Darren sighed, watching you blink back tears. “Maybe you need to find new ways of coping, healthier ways that aren’t nearly going to get you killed.” You felt your heart twist at their reference. They can’t be serious… “{{user}}, I love you. But the world can’t always play by your rules.”

“My rules? I’ve spent my entire life playing by your rules. Acting like they make the tiniest bit of sense when they don’t. Do you know how exhausting that is?” You rambled as Darren met your gaze.

“So then stop. Just stop, no one is asking-“ Darren stopped, their tone coming out harsher than they intended. They sighed, giving you an exasperated look. “What I meant is-“